Core Viewpoint - Yum China Holdings is expected to report a year-over-year increase in earnings and revenues for the quarter ended December 2025, with the actual results being crucial for near-term stock price movements [1][2]. Earnings Expectations - The upcoming earnings report is anticipated to be released on February 4, with a consensus EPS estimate of $0.35, reflecting a +16.7% year-over-year change, and revenues projected at $2.73 billion, up 5.3% from the previous year [3]. - The consensus EPS estimate has been revised 1.14% higher in the last 30 days, indicating a positive reassessment by analysts [4]. Earnings Surprise Prediction - The Zacks Earnings ESP model shows a positive Earnings ESP of +2.86% for Yum China, suggesting analysts are optimistic about the company's earnings prospects [12]. - A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, especially when combined with a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy), or 3 (Hold) [10]. Historical Performance - Yum China has matched consensus EPS estimates in the last reported quarter, with earnings of $0.76 per share, resulting in no surprise [13]. - Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates two times [14]. Investment Considerations - While an earnings beat may influence stock movement, other factors can also affect stock performance, making it essential to consider the broader context [15][17]. - Investors are encouraged to check the Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank before the quarterly release to identify potential investment opportunities [16].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brinker reported total revenues of $1.45 billion for Q2 FY 2026, an increase of 7% over the prior year, with consolidated comp sales of +7.5% [19] - Adjusted diluted EPS for the quarter was $2.87, up from $2.80 last year [19] - Restaurant operating margin was 18.8%, compared to 19.1% in the prior year, a decrease of 30 basis points year over year [20] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was approximately $223.5 million, a 3.6% increase from the prior year [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Chili's same-store sales were at +8.6%, outpacing the casual dining industry by 680 basis points, with a 2-year cumulative comp of 43% [5] - Maggiano's reported comp sales for the quarter of -2.4%, but showed sequential improvement during the quarter [20][15] - Chili's top-line sales growth was driven by a price increase of 4.4%, positive traffic of 2.7%, and a positive mix of 1.5% [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Chili's was the number one traffic brand in casual dining for the entire 2025 year [13] - The company captured value leadership in casual dining and the broader restaurant industry over the past three years [12] - The per person check average at Chili's is more than $3 less than direct casual dining competitors and more than $4 less than casual dining as a whole [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving food, service, and atmosphere, with plans to continue menu renovations and introduce new offerings [7][9] - A reimage program for Chili's has started, with plans to complete 60-80 reimages in fiscal 2027 [24][92] - The company aims to maintain a disciplined capital allocation strategy while investing in restaurants and returning excess cash to shareholders [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving the fifth consecutive year of same-store sales growth and second consecutive year of traffic gains [18] - The company anticipates mid-single-digit comps for the back half of the year, despite potential pressure from weather-related impacts [39] - Management noted that the macroeconomic environment is mixed, but emphasized the importance of focusing on controllable factors like food service and atmosphere [67] Other Important Information - The company repurchased an additional $100 million of common stock under its share repurchase program [25] - Capital expenditures for the quarter were approximately $63.7 million, driven by capital maintenance spend [23] - The company expects to face mid-single-digit inflation for the back half of the year due to rising beef prices, despite favorable commodity prices from tariff removals [27][100] Q&A Session Summary Question: What contributed to the strong traffic and sales growth in the quarter? - Management highlighted stable pricing and positive mix driven by successful menu items like the Margarita of the Month and Triple Dippers [30][32] Question: What are the expectations for top-line performance in the back half of the year? - Management expects solid mid-single-digit comps for Chili's, with potential traffic pressure due to weather impacts [39][44] Question: Can you elaborate on the reimaging prototypes being tested? - Management noted that all four reimage units received positive feedback, with insights on cost-effective improvements being gathered [53][56] Question: How is the company addressing store-level employee incentives? - Management is focusing on training managers to understand P&L and ownership before changing incentive structures, with changes expected in 1-2 years [82][85] Question: What is the outlook for new unit growth? - Management confirmed plans for 60-80 remodels in 2027 and expressed optimism about new unit growth in 2028, with a focus on capital allocation [92][95]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brinker reported total revenues of $1.45 billion for Q2 FY 2026, an increase of 7% over the prior year, with consolidated comp sales of +7.5% [19] - Adjusted diluted EPS for the quarter was $2.87, up from $2.80 last year [19] - Restaurant operating margin was 18.8%, compared to 19.1% in the prior year, a decrease of 30 basis points year-over-year [20] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was approximately $223.5 million, a 3.6% increase from the prior year [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Chili's same-store sales were at +8.6%, outpacing the casual dining industry by 680 basis points, with a two-year cumulative comp of 43% [5] - Maggiano's reported comp sales for the quarter of -2.4%, but showed sequential improvement during the quarter [20][15] - Chili's top-line sales growth was driven by a price increase of 4.4%, positive traffic of 2.7%, and a positive mix of 1.5% [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Chili's was the number one traffic brand in casual dining for the entire 2025 year [13] - The company captured value leadership in casual dining and the broader restaurant industry over the past three years [12] - The average check at Chili's is still more than $3 less than direct competitors and more than $4 less than casual dining as a whole [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving food, service, and atmosphere, with plans to continue menu renovations and introduce new offerings [7][10] - A reimage program for Chili's has started, with plans to complete 60-80 reimages in fiscal 2027 [24][90] - The company aims to maintain a disciplined capital allocation strategy while investing in restaurants and returning excess cash to shareholders [25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving solid mid-single-digit comps for the back half of the year, despite potential pressure from the storm and holiday shifts [39][40] - The company anticipates wage inflation in the low single digits and a tax rate of approximately 19% [26] - Management remains focused on delivering sustainable long-term growth and believes the current strategy is effective [27] Other Important Information - The company repurchased an additional $100 million of common stock under its share repurchase program [25] - Capital expenditures for the quarter were approximately $63.7 million, driven by capital maintenance spend [23] - The company expects to face mid-single-digit inflation for the back half of the year due to rising beef prices [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: What contributed to the strong traffic and sales growth in the quarter? - Management noted stable pricing and positive performance from the Margarita of the Month and other menu items, with no significant changes in guest frequency [30][34] Question: What are the expectations for top-line performance in the back half of the year? - Management expects solid mid-single-digit comps, with potential traffic pressure due to the storm and holiday shifts [39][40] Question: Can you elaborate on the comp cadence for the back half of the year? - Management indicated that January will be impacted by the storm and holiday flip, but expects steady mid-single-digit performance thereafter [44] Question: How does the company plan to manage pricing power with the $10.99 anchor? - Management emphasized the importance of a barbell strategy to offer a range of price points and maintain a balanced sales mix [46][47] Question: What are the learnings from the reimaging program? - Management highlighted that guests and team members love the reimage units, and initial results are promising, with a focus on cost-effective improvements [53][56] Question: What is the outlook for new unit growth? - Management confirmed plans for 60-80 remodels in 2027 and anticipates significant new unit growth in 2028 [90][92]

Core Insights - Starbucks reported revenue of $9.92 billion for the quarter ended December 2025, reflecting a 5.5% increase year-over-year and a surprise of +2.82% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $9.64 billion [1] - The company's EPS was $0.56, down from $0.69 in the same quarter last year, resulting in an EPS surprise of -2.9% compared to the consensus estimate of $0.58 [1] Financial Performance Metrics - Total stores reached 41,118, slightly below the average estimate of 41,241 from seven analysts [4] - Comparable Store Sales - International grew by 5%, exceeding the average estimate of 2.6% [4] - Comparable Store Sales - North America increased by 4%, compared to the average estimate of 1.7% [4] - Year-over-year change in comparable store sales was 4%, surpassing the average estimate of 1.8% [4] - Net Revenues from North America were $7.28 billion, above the estimated $7.14 billion, representing a +3% change year-over-year [4] - Net Revenues from company-operated stores internationally were $1.55 billion, slightly above the $1.53 billion estimate, marking a +9.5% year-over-year change [4] - Net Revenues from licensed stores internationally were $487.2 million, exceeding the estimate of $464.78 million, with a +12.5% year-over-year change [4] - Net Revenues from licensed stores in North America were $643.2 million, below the estimated $708.33 million, reflecting an -8.5% year-over-year change [4] - Net Revenues from company-operated stores totaled $8.19 billion, above the estimated $7.96 billion, indicating a +5.2% year-over-year change [4] - Net Revenues from licensed stores were $1.13 billion, slightly below the estimate of $1.16 billion, with a -0.5% year-over-year change [4] - Net Revenues from other sources were $596.7 million, exceeding the estimate of $526.42 million, representing a +25.2% year-over-year change [4] - Net Revenues from channel development were $522.7 million, above the estimate of $475.27 million, indicating a +19.8% year-over-year change [4] Stock Performance - Starbucks shares returned +12.3% over the past month, outperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +0.8% change [3] - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), suggesting it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term [3]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q2 FY 2026, Brinker reported total revenues of $1.45 billion, an increase of 7% over the prior year, with consolidated comp sales of +7.5% [18] - Adjusted diluted EPS for the quarter was $2.87, up from $2.80 last year [18] - Restaurant operating margin was 18.8%, compared to 19.1% in the prior year, a decrease of 30 basis points year over year [19] - Adjusted EBITDA was approximately $223.5 million, a 3.6% increase from the prior year [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Chili's same-store sales were at +8.6%, outpacing the casual dining industry by 680 basis points, with a 2-year cumulative comp of 43% [4] - Maggiano's reported comp sales for the quarter of -2.4%, but there were signs of sequential improvement [19][13] - Chili's top-line sales growth was driven by a price increase of 4.4%, positive traffic of 2.7%, and a positive mix of 1.5% [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Chili's was the number one traffic brand in casual dining for the entire 2025 year [12] - The company captured value leadership in casual dining and the broader restaurant industry over the past three years [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to continue focusing on improving food, service, and atmosphere, with a strong emphasis on marketing and brand building [5] - A reimage program for Chili's has started, with plans to complete 60-80 reimages in fiscal 2027 and fully roll out the program in fiscal 2028 [22][88] - The company aims to maintain a disciplined capital allocation strategy, allowing for investments in restaurants and returning excess cash to shareholders [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving their fifth consecutive year of same-store sales growth and second consecutive year of traffic gains [17] - The company anticipates mid-single-digit comps for the back half of the year, despite potential pressure from recent weather events [36] - Management noted that the macroeconomic environment remains mixed, but they are focused on controllable factors like food service and atmosphere to drive guest traffic [66] Other Important Information - The company repurchased an additional $100 million of common stock under its share repurchase program [23] - Capital expenditures for the quarter were approximately $63.7 million, driven by capital maintenance spend [21] - The company expects to face commodity inflation in the low single digits for the fiscal year, with some pressures anticipated in the back half [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: What contributed to the strong traffic and sales growth in the quarter? - Management highlighted stable pricing and positive performance from the Margarita of the Month and other menu items, with no significant changes in guest frequency [30][32] Question: What are the expectations for the back half of the year regarding top-line performance? - Management expects solid mid-single-digit comps for the back half, with potential traffic pressure due to recent weather events [36][42] Question: Can you elaborate on the remodels and their expected impact? - Management confirmed plans for 60-80 remodels in 2027, with a focus on operational learning and cost-effective improvements [88][92] Question: How does the company plan to manage pricing power with the $10.99 price point? - Management emphasized the importance of a barbell strategy to maintain a diverse menu and prevent over-reliance on lower price points [44][46] Question: What is the outlook for commodity costs and their impact on margins? - Management reiterated that while tariffs have provided some favorability, mid-single-digit inflation is expected in the back half of the year [99]

Group 1 - Applebee's is reintroducing its Date Night Pass® for the third consecutive year, aimed at enhancing the date night experience throughout the year [1] - The promotion will allow 3,000 randomly selected Club Applebee's members to purchase the Date Night Pass® for $100, which provides a total value of $600 [1] - The pass offers discounts of up to $50 on food and non-alcoholic beverages per visit, valid for 12 date nights, applicable for both dine-in and To Go orders [1]

Core Insights - Black Rock Coffee Bar is expanding its presence in Colorado with the opening of its fifteenth location in Parker on January 30, 2026, highlighting the brand's growth in the region [1][2]. Company Expansion - The new store is located at 16898 E Auburn Hills Dr, Parker, CO 80134, and is part of Black Rock's strategy to continue expanding in Colorado throughout 2026 [2]. - CEO Mark Davis expressed enthusiasm for the brand's growth and the positive reception from local communities [2]. Promotions and Offerings - During the opening week, customers can enjoy various promotions, including free 16-ounce drinks on January 30, buy-one-get-one free drinks on January 31, and other discounts throughout the week [7]. - The Black Rock Rewards app allows customers to earn "bolts" for every purchase, which can be redeemed for free beverages, and includes recent menu additions like protein-packed Egg Bites [2][3]. Seasonal Menu - The store will feature seasonal menu items such as Pecan Pie Blondie, Macaron Matcha Latte, and Lemon Meringue Pie Fuel energy drinks, available in various forms [3]. Company Background - Founded in 2008 in Oregon, Black Rock Coffee Bar has grown to over 160 retail locations across seven states, emphasizing community engagement and a positive work culture [5].

Pricing power is one of the best qualities to look for in a business. It means a company's product is so valuable to customers that it can raise prices without losing demand. Over time, that kind of leverage helps companies stay profitable during rough economic patches. Two consumer-facing leaders showing that kind of strength today are MercadoLibre (NASDAQ: MELI) and Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG). Here's why. Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 1 ...

Pricing power is one of the best qualities to look for in a business. It means a company's product is so valuable to customers that it can raise prices without losing demand. Over time, that kind of leverage helps companies stay profitable during rough economic patches. Two consumer-facing leaders showing that kind of strength today are MercadoLibre (NASDAQ: MELI) and Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG). Here's why. Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 1 ...

Core Viewpoint - Johnson Fistel, PLLP is investigating potential shareholder derivative claims against Starbucks Corporation regarding alleged breaches of fiduciary duties by certain officers and directors, following a securities class action related to the company's stock performance during a specified period [1][3]. Group 1: Investigation Details - The investigation is prompted by a securities class action complaint alleging that Starbucks and its senior executives made materially false and misleading statements and failed to disclose adverse facts [3]. - On April 30, 2024, Starbucks announced disappointing second-quarter fiscal 2024 results and lowered its full-year guidance, leading to a stock price drop from $88.49 to $74.44, a decline of over 15% in one day [3]. - The focus of the investigation includes whether the board of directors and senior management allowed misconduct, failed to implement adequate disclosure and risk-management controls, and exposed the company to financial and reputational harm [4]. Group 2: Shareholder Actions - Current Starbucks shareholders who held shares continuously before November 2, 2023, may have standing to pursue derivative claims on behalf of the company [2]. - Shareholders are encouraged to seek more information through the law firm's website or contact the lead analyst for further assistance [2].